Twelves Company
Although Plymouth was at the centre of a major paedophile ring (thought to be active over nearly 40 years until 2004 and still proceeding through the courts) there’s very little specialist support available in the city for young people who have been sexually abused as a child. These young people are at high risk of addictions, self-harm, criminal activity and suicidal tendencies. Comic Relief has awarded a grant to Twelve's Company to enable an art therapist to work with 11 to 18 year olds who have been abused, providing them with a safe environment to express their thoughts and feelings and begin to regain control of their lives. They are also building evidence about the prevalence of childhood sexual abuse, its effect on young people's behaviour and mental health and the value of different therapies in helping them overcome their trauma. This information is vital to make sure appropriate help is available to those who need it in the future.
